I've tested the solenoid with direct 12v and it clicks. My VAFC is set for 5400 and the vti and vto both signal on. Oil level is full. Operating Temps. Guages are fine. No CEL. Still no VTEC. When using a VAFC does't it engage despite the factory safety features? When I read voltage on the connector when unplugged it reads 11.8v idling...but when plugged in solenoid doesn't engage (thankfully). That's pretty wierd considering I know the solenoid works. What am I missing. (00 si)

 

vtec shouldn't engage until 5400 and I know the solenoid and its ground work because when I apply 12v from the battery it clicks. When I do some test driving I can't feel a difference w/ the solenoid unplugged or plugged in. I would think that I would hear or feel something!

 

Update: I checked the wiring and signal voltage...all ok. the reading I was getting on the wire (11.8v) was insignificant because when it was plugged in I didn't get that reading. I get a 12v vtec signal when my vafc triggers it and when I apply direct 12v the solenoid clicks. So I'm sure everything is functional right up through the solenoid. Does this mean my vtec is engaging for sure, or could there still be something holding it back. Is there anything I can check with the valve cover off.

 

I would guess the VAFC is at fault. If it is easy to unhook then try that and see if it is a go. Another thing to do is run a test wire from each of your VTEC wires into your cabin. While you are on the road under load have a friend check for voltages when they are supposed to be there. Maybe even bring along a twelve volt source to actuate the solenoid. Just remember to label your wires and don't try to test it your self while driving! BTW that comment about not being able to feel VTEC is BS. The motor responds completely different when in VTEC, especially a B16A.

 

cause its better

 

I'm getting the 12v signal from the VAFC. I figured my turbo was disguising the engagement, but now I'm not so sure. The only thing I can think of left is a physical limitation in the actual switchover. Is that possible?

 

It is possible but not nearly as likely as an electrical problem. Has the VTEC worked at all since you installed said VAFC? Do you have an aftermarket exhaust or intake? If so you should be able to hear the VTEC engagement.


[Modified by 94IntegraGSR-OVR, 2:24 PM 10/19/2002]

 

Every thing works up through the solenoid, so if it's not engaging the problem is some sort of physical limitation.

 

Ok so you've checked all wiring and the solenoid and everything is as it should be, your just not hearing anything different while driving, and your not sure if its engaging or not. Remove the top of the air box and take out the filter and go for a quick drive, if your vtec is working you should hear a clear difference in induction note with the cover removed once the vtec comes in, if you dont then its back to square one again.

 

My t3/t4e is running 10-12psi by that 5400 mark. All of the noise from that seems to cover it up if it's engaging. What I don't get is that I don't feel any crossover, even when I raise or lower the xover point. And I did some test runs with the solenoid unplugged and I couldn't tell any difference.

 

When was the last time you changed the oil and filter?

Try that.

 

Check your oil pressure.

 

Oil &Filter just changed...but your not reading here...every thing works fine up to and including the solenoid. I know it's not common but if this thing's not engaging it has some sort of physical limitation in the head.

 

Do you have an oil pressure restrictor as part of your turbo oiling system? Do you have an oil pressure gauge? I know that there could be some sort of mechanical failure but you have to cover the basics first especially considering the mechanical VTEC compnents rarely fail.

 

I'm getting the 12v signal and the solenoid is activating. If there wasn't sufficient pressure my VAFC wouldn't send the signal. I don't have a guage (although adding one is a new priority). I plan on doing a valve adjustment one of these days so I'll have the valve cover off, this would be the perfect opportunity to look for any physical limitations there, but I've never done this before so I didn't know what to look for.....what actually happens when vtec is engaged? It looks like the solenoid opens and allows oil through to engage....if that's true then my oil pressure could still be to blame (enough to allow signal, but not enough to actuate high cam lobe).

 

why don't u just hook up an oil pressure gauge of some sort to your sending unit area and crank her up; Now you'll definitely know if it's the pressure problem or not

 

aren't you not supposed to use a VAFC under boost?

 

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